We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastics: The Occurrence in Stormwater Runoff and the Effectiveness of Bioretention Systems for Removal
Summary
Researchers measured microplastic concentrations in stormwater runoff and tested the removal efficiency of bioretention systems including green roofs, bioswales, and bioretention cells, finding that these green infrastructure systems can significantly reduce microplastic loads before they reach surface waters. The study provides baseline data on stormwater as a microplastic transport pathway and evaluates a nature-based treatment solution.
Stormwater is considered a pathway of microplastics to surface water systems, but the magnitude of microplastic pollution in stormwater and the efficacy of existing stormwater treatment methods are unknown. One potential solution for minimizing microplastics in surface waters is leveraging green infrastructure, such as green roofs, bioswales, and bioretention cells, which can be optimized for the removal of conventional and emerging contaminants. The goals of this study were to (1) establish baseline types and quantities of anthropogenic microparticles, including microplastics, found in stormwater, and (2) evaluate bioretention as a possible solution for reducing microplastics in stormwater. To understand baseline conditions, samples were taken from five different catch basins in north Portland, Oregon, during four storm events and analyzed to quantify and characterize microparticles between 106 μm and 5 mm. A baseline concentration of 4.5±2.2 (range 1.1–9.7) particles/L was found, with no observed differences in concentrations between sampling locations or storm events. Most identified microparticles were fibers (66%), and approximately 47% of the particles were cotton, followed by polyester/blend (33%) and nylon (9%). Microparticle concentrations were correlated with the concentration of total suspended solids and the number of pieces of litter collected during a litter survey. To determine the efficiency of bioretention systems for microplastic removal, laboratory bioretention columns were constructed and filled with three different geomedia (a City of Portland, Oregon, standard mix, a proprietary mix, and layered sand and compost). A total of nine columns (three replicates of each geomedia) were tested with stormwater collected from a catch basin in Portland that was spiked with synthetic microplastics (106–5,000 μm). A removal efficiency of 99.8% was observed across all bioretention columns, regardless of the media type. Results indicate green stormwater infrastructure, such as bioretention, may be an effective tool for reducing observed microplastic transport from urban runoff to receiving water bodies.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
The Occurrence and Removal of Microplastics from Stormwater Using Green Infrastructure
This review examines microplastic occurrence in urban stormwater and the potential of green infrastructure — particularly bioretention systems and constructed wetlands — to capture and remove plastic particles before they reach surface water bodies.
Microplastics removal from stormwater runoff by bioretention cells: A review
This review examines the potential of bioretention cells, a type of green infrastructure, to remove microplastics from stormwater runoff. Researchers analyzed how these systems filter microplastics through soil media and vegetation and identified the key design parameters that affect removal efficiency. The study suggests that bioretention cells offer a promising nature-based solution for reducing microplastic loads entering waterways from urban areas.
Analysis of Bioretention Capability in Removing Microplastic Particles from Stormwater
This study tested the ability of bioretention systems (vegetated stormwater gardens) to remove microplastic particles from stormwater, finding effective removal across multiple particle sizes and types. Bioretention infrastructure shows promise as a practical tool for preventing microplastics from stormwater runoff from reaching rivers and coastal waters.
Microplastics Characterization in Stormwater: Pavement Source Evaluation and Treatment Efficiency of a Bioretention Cell
Researchers characterised microplastics in stormwater from pavement sources and evaluated the treatment efficiency of a bioretention cell, finding that pavement surfaces contribute substantially to microplastic loading and that bioretention can reduce particle concentrations.
Occurrence and Pathways of Microplastics in Bioretention Filters
Researchers found eleven microplastic polymer types in bioretention filter soil and stormwater samples in an urban setting, characterizing the occurrence and pathways of microplastics entering these green infrastructure systems from contaminated impervious surface runoff.